Amazon Acquires 3D Mapping Startup UpNext

In a bid to have a mapping service of its own and to stay competitive in light of competition from Google and Apple (at least in the mobile space), Amazon has reportedly agree to a deal which will see it acquire 3D mapping upstart UpNext.

Based in New York, UpNext mostly offers interactive, detailed 3D maps of cities and places. It has launched apps for both iOS and Android devices. Although the price of the acquisition has yet to be disclosed, rumors indicate that investors are receiving up to 5x their returns from 16 months ago.

According to analysts, Amazon's acquisition of UpNext hints at a more feature-packed Kindle in the future as well as a possibly Amazon smartphone - the current Kindle Fire doesn't have a GPS receiver.